Neo Lavender HE vs. HMX Macchiato
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Macchiato switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the HMX Macchiato present compelling yet distinct options tailored to different typing preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, recognized for its clean, low sound, utilizes hall effect technology and is compatible with Wooting keyboards, making it a fantastic choice for users seeking a quiet gaming or typing experience while still enjoying the benefits of magnetic switching. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato, developed by YG Studio, caters to those who favor a silky smooth typing experience enhanced by a bright sound profile, perfect for typists who enjoy auditory feedback and a tactile connection to their work. Both switches offer unique qualities that may suit various needs; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Macchiato switches reveal a striking resemblance, as both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material choice positions both switches within the same acoustic and tactile framework, leading to a similar auditory experience while typing. Nylon, recognized as a classic switch housing material, has inherent qualities that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition. This softness allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounded and somewhat muted audio characteristic. Therefore, both the Lavender HE and the Macchiato will produce a desirable sound when typing.
When examining the bottom housing, the inclusion of nylon in both the Lavender HE and Macchiato further enhances the continuity of user experience. Since the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the nylon material ensures that both switches provide similar tactile feedback when pressed. This aspect is crucial for avid typists who prioritize not just the sound but also the tactile sensation when typing. Because both switches share this nylon housing composition, users can expect a consistent bottom-out experience across both models, reinforcing the deep auditory qualities discussed earlier.
Overall, the unification of nylon in both the top and bottom housings of the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Macchiato ensures that the quality of sound and feel remains impressively uniform. Whether utilizing the Lavender HE or the Macchiato, users will benefit from a cohesive typing experience that capitalizes on the properties of nylon. The influence of the top housing in sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing’s impact when bottoming out will consistently reflect the warm, full-bodied character characteristic of nylon, allowing for an enjoyable and harmonious typing experience across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE Hall effect switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, both display relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender HE features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Macchiato has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, with the same bottom out force of 50 grams as the Lavender HE. Both switches share the same bottom out force, but the Lavender HE has the advantage of a lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Macchiato, while still within the light range, offers a marginally heavier feel during actuation, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, if you're inclined toward lighter switches, the Neo Lavender HE would be the better option, whereas the HMX Macchiato offers a slightly firmer option within the lighter category.
Travel distance
The Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Macchiato linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Macchiato switch provides a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial pressing experience. On the other hand, the Lavender HE's shorter travel distance would cater better to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, as it allows for quicker actuation. Ultimately, if a user seeks a balance between a quick response and a tactile experience, they might find both switches adequate, but the Lavender HE is the shorter option, and the Macchiato is the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Macchiato has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Macchiato for $2.99.
The Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Neo Lavender HE switch is characterized by a clean, low sound profile, making it a great choice for users who prefer a more subtle auditory feedback. This quality is particularly notable in the context of its compatibility with Wooting keyboards, which are designed to enhance the experience of magnetic switches. On the other hand, the HMX Macchiato presents a brighter sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced acoustic feedback while typing. Ultimately, while the sound signatures are different, personal setup factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps can also influence the overall auditory experience for both switches.
When it comes to feel, the Neo Lavender HE switch is known for its smoothness, providing a pleasant tactile experience without being overly pronounced. This switch is designed to offer a comfortable typing sensation that can be conducive to long sessions at the keyboard. In contrast, the HMX Macchiato is crafted specifically for those who seek a silky smooth typing experience. Both switches prioritize a seamless feel, though individual preferences may steer users toward one or the other based on their specific typing style.
Overall, both the Neo Lavender HE and HMX Macchiato switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lavender HE is ideal for those who desire a low sound with a smooth tactile feedback, while the Macchiato appeals to users who appreciate a brighter sound and seek an exceptionally velvety feel. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or tactile experience, but both options will deliver high-quality performance in their own right.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the HMX Macchiato linear switch, your decision should hinge on your personal preferences for sound and tactile experience. If you favor a clean, low sound with a smooth keystroke, the Neo Lavender HE could be your best option, especially if you're using a Wooting keyboard; this switch excels in providing a straightforward yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a silky smooth feel paired with a brighter sound profile, then the HMX Macchiato is likely the more suitable choice. The Macchiato's design emphasizes a refined tactile experience, perfect for those who enjoy a little extra character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the ambiance you wish to create while typing, whether you lean towards the more subtle tones of the Lavender HE or the enhanced auditory feedback of the Macchiato.
Mentioned in this article
